The Backpacking Club This nonprofit co-op has been organizing day hikes and backpacking trips in the Inland Northwest since 1994. In addition to outdoor excursions, the group offers backpacking leadership courses and winter survival classes. Annual membership is $25. Spokane • Wash. • 467-8099 • backpackingclub.macwebsitebuilder.com
Dishman Hills Conservancy Ok, so Dishman Hill Conservancy isn't a hiking group, per se, but this organization committed to land conservation does organize guided hikes, like birdwatching hikes to Big Rock and butterfly-watching hikes in the Dishman Hills. Spokane • Wash. • dishmanhills.org
Exploring the Inland Northwest with Sierra Club Hosted by the local chapter of the Sierra Club, members of this group call themselves "explorers with a pair of boots." The chapter organizes a few hikes each month, and all are free and open to all ages. meetup.com/Exploring-the-Inland-Northwest-with-Sierra-Club
Friends of the Scotchman Peaks Wilderness This group is all about hiking with a cause: encouraging positive dialogue about environmental issues, especially in the Scotchman Peak area. Hikes are free and range from easy to strenuous, with a variety of themes, like ecological mystery or yoga hikes. Sandpoint • Idaho • 208-290-1281 • scotchmanpeaks.org
Hobnailers, Inc. Established in 1951, the Hobnailers' goal is to promote fellowship among outdoor enthusiasts. They host a variety of social events throughout the year, in addition to hikes on Sundays and Wednesdays, March through October. Spokane • Wash. • 487-7366 • Inlandnorthwesttrails.org/events/Hobnailers.asp
Inland Northwest Hikers These hiking enthusiasts have organized more than 700 hikes since the group's founding in 2010. Offering a relaxed social environment for hikers of all ages and abilities, the Inland Northwest Hikers' frequent locations include Mount Spokane, Riverside State Park, Latah Creek, Liberty Lake and the Little Spokane River. meetup.com/Inland-Northwest-Hikers/
MsAdventures This lively bunch of ladies loves the outdoors. Women young and old are welcome, whether they're experienced hikers or "outdoor activity wannabes." They offer multiple walks, hikes and bike rides each week, and the only requirement is a sense of humor. meetup.com/Ms-Adventures-of-the-Inland-Northwest/
North Idaho Adventurers Club The sky's the limit for this group of fun-loving Idahoans. They don't just hike regularly; they also gather for bald eagle watching, potlucks, salsa dancing and kayaking, to name a few activities. Have an idea for an outing? Post about it in the online group and you're sure to have company. meetup.com/adventurers-327/
Spokane Mountaineers The Spokane Mountaineers are certainly spry for having just celebrated their 101st birthday. The group has spent the past century promoting the conservation and enjoyment of nature through backpacking trips, day hikes, bicycling, skiing and various educational schools and clinics. 838-4974 • spokanemountaineers.org
